FL girls swimming preview: Spartans Markey ready to excel in the water

ADAMS  Hannah Markey is taking a different approach this swimming season.

The South Jefferson junior is learning to convert her nervous energy into power in the pool.

Im trying to make myself more of a machine, Markey said. I know that sounds kind of funny, but when the nerves start to build up I just think of it as my fuel, and thats what drives me.

Markey experienced frustration last season when she was unable to improve her race times from the previous year. She was invited up to varsity as a freshman and made an immediate impact as a freestyle sprinter. But, as Markey dealt with more pressure to lead the team last year, she struggled to drop time in her events. She said she was dwelling too much about technique and form.

I would focus on breathing and then I would focus on flip turns, and if it wasnt good enough the rest of the race Id be hung up on that one flip turn that I messed up on, Markey said.And now Im trying to make myself more of a machine, its programmed into me, I just think fast, just go fast.

Markeys main events have been the 50- and 100-yard freestyles and as an anchor on the 200 and 400 free relays. Taking into consideration South Jeffersons young swimming program is entering its sixth year, she holds school records in all four events.

Hannahs by far one of the most dedicated swimmers Ive coached, South Jefferson coach Tim Corbett said. She gives it everything shes got. Shes there to push her teammates even if they dont feel they can do it. Shes super supportive.

This season Markey expects to be competing in a variety of events to see what she can do and to try to return the excitement to her races.

Markey captured the 100 backstroke, with a school-best time, during Thursdays season-opening nonleague victory over Mexico. She also claimed the 100 free and swam on the winning freestyle relays.

Finally this year with the team that we have she doesnt have to do so much, Corbett said. The other two years there was pressure she had to be the girl to do everything, but now shes more relaxed because she knows her teammates will pick up anything else we need.

The Spartans are also expecting contributions from Amy Johnson in the sprints and 100 butterfly and Maddie Lowe in the 100 and freestyle relays. Anna Docteur should provide strong performances in the 200 and 500 free, while Kayla Vanderpool is focusing on the 200 individual medley and 100 backstroke.

I was looking forward to the season from the get-go because I knew that the team that I had, they were hungry to be pushed, Corbett said. Were already shooting at times this year at that first meet that we werent seeing last year until the end of the season.

South Jefferson finished 8-2 last year, losing twice to Frontier League champion Watertown. Markey says her team has what it needs to beat the Cyclones and capture their first league title.

I expect a lot of great things from us this year, Markey said. I know a lot of people have been talking about Watertown and how were right on their heels. I think weve totally got it; Its just about believing in ourselves. 

Markey recognizes how difficult upsetting Watertown will be. The teams will get their first chance to face each other on Thursday at South Jefferson.

I think its going to be extremely close, Markey said. Were trying to prepare ourselves mentally for it because the major factor that would be holding our team back is the lack of confidence.

We all have the ability, Markey added. I think its all about getting the mindset and quick flip turns, quick starts. Thats what its going to come down to, really pushing ourselves.

Watertown graduated 11 seniors from last years 10-1 overall, 10-0 squad, including state competitor Samantha Favret, who dominated the 200 IM and 100 backstroke. The Cyclones also lost distance swimmer Brittney Thesier and sprinter Bree Jefferds. Watertown coach Lori Peters said she had to rebuild all her relays this season.

Watertown will rely on Victoria Olsen in distance races, and Julia Marilley in the sprints and 100 butterfly. Kaylee Cook and eighth-grader Brooke Peters are also expected to make an impact.

Heres a look at all the Frontier League teams:

NORTHERN DIVISION

A DIVISION

Outlook: Watertown and South Jefferson will be likely contenders for the A Division and overall North Division title. The Spartans have a chance to beat the Cyclones and claim their first league crown. The race between the two teams should be an exciting one. Defending champion Watertown will rely on Victoria Olsen (distance), Kaylee Cook (backstroke) and Julia Marilley (sprints, butterfly). South Jefferson should get its strength from Hannah Markey (sprints, backstroke), Amy Johnson (sprints), Maddie Lowe (100 free, relays) and Anna Docteur (distance). Carthage will seek leadership from Claire Sauter, Carly Sullivan, Kendra Bates and Natasha Gamble. Indian River will depend on versatile swimmer Rachel Rodriquez (100 butterfly, 100 back, 500 free).